King Lear (Annotated with Biography and Critical Essay)

The dates of the writing and first performance of King Lear are unknown, although it is known that King James I viewed the play on December 26, 1606.  Shakespeare may have been inspired to write King Lear by the uncertainly that accompanied the last years of Queen Elizabeth I’s life, as she left no children or nieces and nephews to inherit the throne.

King Lear is the King of Britain.  He decides to “retire” as king and divide his land holdings among his three daughters – Goneril, Regan, and Cordelia.  What they will inherit is dependent on how skillfully the daughters can publically proclaim love for their father.  Goneril and Regan, who are married to the Duke of Albany and the Duke of Cornwall respectively, have no problem with this, and speak enthusiastically about their love for their father.  Cordelia, the youngest girl, refuses to flatter her father.  She is his favorite daughter, and in his disappointment, Lear cuts her off without a penny and banishes her. She marries the King of France who is willing to accept her without an inheritance.  Lear’s friend and ally, the Earl of Kent, defends Cordelia and he is sent off in disgrace; he returns to the court in disguise.  Lear’s kingdom is now split between his two older daughters.

This annotated edition includes a biography and critical essay.